Is Langkawi, Malaysia Really Not Worth the Trip? Discover the Hidden Gems

I declare Langkawi to be the most underrated island city in all of Peninsular Malaysia! While it may not be as popular as Penang and Kuala Lumpur, and solo travelers like me are a rarity, it turned out to be the most comfortable and delightful part of my entire Malaysian adventure.

[One] Dining here is incredibly affordable; you can enjoy a satisfying meal for around 10RM at roadside stalls and night markets, and 20RM will leave you feeling utterly content. I highly recommend the Thai restaurant Paid Kin Cfood, where dishes range from 10-20RM. The seafood fried noodles and seafood soup are absolutely divine!

I couldn’t resist indulging in them for two days straight!
The small night market stalls near the duty-free shop at Pantai Cenang are also fantastic, offering very affordable and flavorful food. A plate of fried noodles costs just 10RM, and a refreshing glass of fresh juice is only 5RM.

[Two] Island hopping is surprisingly budget-friendly; AB Travel offers a half-day trip for just 30RM, taking you to three beautiful islands. One of these is Freshwater Lake Island, where you can splash around in the water and observe playful monkeys, and even spot majestic eagles. Beras Basah Island, with its crystal-clear, jelly-like waters, is perfect for swimming and snorkeling among colorful fish.

There are also various beach activities available on the island. Paragliding, while a bit pricier at 150RM, offers a breathtaking view of the stunning gradient sea, which I found to be well worth the cost.

[Three] Simply lounging around is an absolute delight. For two consecutive days, I headed to the beach to watch the sunset, lying on the sand like the European and American tourists, basking in the gentle sea breeze and watching the sun dip below the horizon. The evening scenery is different every day, always full of surprises!

[Four] At Pantai Cenang, people seem to materialize out of nowhere at sunset, transforming the street into a lively and bustling hub. It’s also very safe to explore at night!

🎈 Quick tips on accommodation and transportation:
Transportation: A Grab ride from the airport to Pantai Cenang costs about 10RM, and the distance to Kuah Town is similar. Most places are easily accessible on foot.
Accommodation: Bed Attitude Hostel offers a clean and well-maintained environment, with daily cleaning services. They provide female dorms, though the bathrooms and showers are gender-neutral. If this is a concern, you might want to explore other options.